Pajama Cardinal
(Sphaeramia nematoptera)

Descrição

The common name for *Sphaeramia nematoptera* is Pajama Cardinalfish. It is also known as Spotted Cardinalfish, Coral Cardinalfish, or Polkadot Cardinalfish.

**Appearance and Behaviour**:
The Pajama Cardinalfish is a striking fish with a unique coloration. It has a greenish-yellow face, large bright orange or red eyes, and a silver-based body. A prominent broad, dark, vertical band or “waistband” runs through its midsection, separating the yellowish head from the rear half. The posterior portion of its body is dotted with scattered red or orange polka dots. Younger fish may have black spots that turn red as they mature. They have high-raised dorsal fins and wide flared belly fins that are often yellow. The second dorsal fin of adults may develop a long filament. They typically grow to about 7.5 to 9 cm (3 to 3.5 inches) in length.

In the wild, Pajama Cardinalfish are generally nocturnal, hiding in crevices or among branching corals during the day and becoming active at night to feed. In aquariums, especially when kept in groups with calm tankmates, they can become more active during the day. They are peaceful and somewhat shy fish that prefer to be kept in schools of at least five or more individuals, as keeping them alone can lead to hiding and languishing. They form loose aggregations and can establish a hierarchy within small groups without aggression towards each other. They are slow swimmers.

**Care Level**:
Pajama Cardinalfish are considered easy to moderate to care for, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. They are generally hardy and adaptable. They are peaceful towards most tankmates and are considered reef-safe with caution, as larger individuals might consume very small crustaceans like tiny shrimp. Avoid housing them with large or aggressive predators, or very fast-swimming fish, as they are docile and can be easily stressed or outcompeted for food. If breeding, male Pajama Cardinalfish mouthbrood, and pairs may become territorial towards conspecifics.

**Tank Essentials**:
A minimum tank size of 100 to 250 liters (26-66 gallons) is recommended for a school of Pajama Cardinalfish, with larger tanks preferred for bigger groups. The aquarium should be well-decorated with ample rockwork, branching corals (like *Porites* species), and hiding places to provide security, mimicking their natural habitat. A sandy substrate is also preferred. They prefer moderate water flow. Water parameters should be stable: pH 8.1-8.4, temperature 22-29°C (72-84°F), and salinity 1.020-1.025. Nitrate levels should be kept below 25 mg/L.

**Diet**:
Pajama Cardinalfish are carnivores. In the wild, they primarily feed on animal plankton, small crustaceans, and larvae. In captivity, they readily accept a varied diet of meaty foods such as frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped shrimp, and bloodworms. High-quality flakes and pellets can also be offered, though some may initially be reluctant to eat dry foods. Since they are nocturnal, feeding them at dusk or during a “twilight” period may be beneficial if they are shy feeders during the day.

**Why Buy From Us**:
When you choose to buy Pajama Cardinalfish online from us, you’re selecting healthy aquarium fish sourced responsibly. We prioritize ethical sourcing and humane shipping to ensure your new marine companions arrive vibrant and ready to thrive in your aquatic display. Bring the unique beauty of these peaceful fish to your home today.

**Scientific Name:** Sphaeramia nematoptera
**Common Name / Variant:** Pajama Cardinalfish
**Maximum Size:** 9 cm
**Origin:** Indo-Pacific (Java to Fiji, Ryukyu Islands to Great Barrier Reef)
**pH Range:** 8.1–8.4
**Temperature:** 22–29°C
**Lifespan:** 2–8 years
**Swimming Zone:** Mid-bottom

**Add a vibrant school of Pajama Cardinalfish to your reef aquarium today!**

Pajama Cardinalfish: Add Mesmerising Charm to Your Aquarium

Bring the captivating beauty of the Pajama Cardinalfish to your marine habitat. These peaceful and uniquely patterned fish are a delightful addition, perfect for vibrant community aquariums.

Overview

The Pajama Cardinalfish (*Sphaeramia nematoptera*) boasts a distinctive and eye-catching appearance. Its greenish-yellow face and large, bright orange eyes lead into a silver body adorned with a broad, dark vertical band. The rear half is beautifully speckled with red or orange polka dots. Growing to about 9 cm, these striking fish exhibit a serene presence, often hovering gracefully among corals.

Care Level

Considered easy to moderate in care, the Pajama Cardinalfish is an excellent choice for a range of aquarists. They are peaceful, hardy, and thrive in groups of five or more, which encourages natural schooling behavior. While generally reef-safe, larger individuals might occasionally consume very small crustaceans.

Tank Essentials

A minimum tank size of 100-250 litres is recommended for a healthy school of Pajama Cardinalfish. Provide ample rockwork, branching corals, and plenty of hiding spots to mimic their natural reef environment. Maintain stable water parameters: pH between 8.1-8.4, and a temperature range of 22-29°C.

Diet

These carnivores primarily feed on meaty foods. Offer a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. High-quality flakes and pellets can also be introduced. They are naturally nocturnal, so consider feeding at dusk if they are shy during the day.

Why Buy From Us

When you buy Pajama Cardinalfish online from us, you’re investing in responsibly sourced, healthy aquarium fish. We ensure meticulous care and ethical shipping practices, guaranteeing your new fish arrive in prime condition, ready to flourish in your aquatic ecosystem. Discover the joy of healthy marine life with us.

• Scientific Name: Sphaeramia nematoptera
• Common Name / Variant: Pajama Cardinalfish
• Maximum Size: 9 cm
• Origin: Indo-Pacific
• pH Range: 8.1–8.4
• Temperature: 22–29°C
• Lifespan: 2–8 years
• Swimming Zone: Mid-bottom

Add a vibrant school of Pajama Cardinalfish to your reef aquarium today!